ANZAC Day 2020 will not look like the ANZAC Day that so many of are used to participating in.
There will be a Dawn Service at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance where wreaths will be laid, the Last Post played and a minute silence in memory of the fallen will be observed, but the service community and the public will be asked to stay at home.
This presentation will be broadcast live on the television, radio and social media.
Lakes Entrance RSL is asking you take a moment to reflect on the service and sacrifice of veterans and those who are still serving today.
There is also an idea that has gathered momentum on social media, and it is a brilliant way to collectively honour the dedication, commitment and support of the ‘Stand in Your Driveway at Dawn’ campaign, where people stand at the end of their driveway or balcony at 6am on ANZAC Day as the Last Post is played live over the media, and observe a minute silence in respect of our veterans.
“The display would send a powerful message of solidarity to Australia’s defence community after ANZAC Day services, events and parades are cancelled amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis,” Lakes Entrance RSL president, Terry Kavanagh, said.
“Why not pick up the phone and actually call your veteran friends. Maybe somebody you haven’t spoken to in a while and let them know you’re thinking of them.”
Because of this unfortunate side effect of large gatherings, social distancing and stay at home rules means there will be no RSL organised public services, commemorations, breakfasts, lunches, or other activities conducted by the Lakes Entrance RSL SubBranch on ANZAC Day. This means no Dawn Service and/or 11am service will be held in Lakes Entrance.
“This does not mean that ANZAC Day is cancelled. It just means that ANZAC Day will be different,” Mr Kavanagh said.
“This is the first time ANZAC Day services have been cancelled since 1919, which was due to the outbreak of the Spanish flu.
“Qualities evoked by the ANZAC spirit - ingenuity, humour, endurance, courage and mateship - are more important than ever in times of uncertainty. Regardless of the form this year’s ANZAC Day commemorations take, let’s show that Australians will always remember those who have served and sacrificed for this nation.
“This will reverberate across Lakes Entrance in a never before attempted phenonmenon. A very true commemoration to those to whom should never be forgotten.
“Together, let’s amplify our commitment to the ANZAC spirit.
“Lest We Forget.”
IMAGE: Lakes Entrance RSL president, Terry Kavanagh, is urging the community to commemorate ANZAC Day by heading to their driveway or balcony for the Dawn Service as coronavirus restrictions mean the regular service at the Cenotaph cannot be held.
